Sub $150 card to replace 9600XT

I'm looking to upgrade my AGP video card, currently a Radeon 9600XT.

I'm thinking of either an X1600Pro 256MB or a GF 6800GT 128MB, both about
the same price of $145. Would either of these give me a significant
performance increase? Does anyone have a different recommendation? Not
looking to upgrade my entire system right now, just looking to get another
18 months or so before doing that.

MB is ASUS P4P800 Deluxe.

TIA

 

[snip]

Oops, I meant the GF 6600GT 128MB. Sorry about that.

 

So where'd you find the 6800GT for less than 150? Perhaps you mean a
6600GT, they're excellent cards for the money and run 120-150'ish.
Since I've used a 9600 Pro before (faster than your XT), I can
definitely say the 6600GT is an upgrade. But don't spend too much since
you will likely have all around better performance if you upgrade your
motherboard and CPU. A 1600 isn't going to push a 6600GT very much, let
alone the much faster 6800GT.

 

Just almost did the same.. X1600PRo 512M AGP on a new machine.. went from
2.4Ghz to 3.4Ghz processor thought... Still testing but I can crank up the
AA and AF now.... Doom and Fable look much better and play is smoother..

 

Since I've used a 9600 Pro before (faster than your XT)

Other way around actually, 9600XT is a higher clocked 9600Pro.


Tony.

 

Best bang per buck at the moment is with 6800GS or X800GTO if you can
stretch to those, substantially faster than 6600GT.

Tony.

 

You would be happy with ether the X1600 AGP or 6600GT AGP.
With the 6600GT they have had more time to improve the drivers.
The X1600 comes with better video play back support.
Might want to watch EBay, get the best price on a used 6600GT.

 

And, I think if you can wait a couple of months the 6800GS AGP should be
in the $120-$150 range. Just a guess.